Describe how ACh transmits nerve impulses across Cholinergic Synapse

1.AP arrives at the presynaptic neurone2.AP stimulates voltage gated Ca ion channels to open3.Increased permeability of Ca ion channels causes synaptic vesicles to fuse with presynaptic membrane4. Exocytosis occurs - vesicles release neurotransmitter Acetylcholine (ACh) into synaptic cleft5. ACh diffuses across the synaptic cleft and binds to cholinergic receptors on the postsynaptic membrane6. Na ions channels open in the postsynaptic neurone7. Influx of Na ions causes depolarisation and if threshold is reached an AP8. Enzyme Acetylcholinesterase breaks down ACh so the response does not keep happening.

NA
Answered by Natasha A. Biology tutor

2877 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is the cardiac cycle regulated by the heart itself?


What is a synapse and how is information passed through it?


Describe the role of RUBISCO in plants and evaluate the importance of RUBISCO in the Calvin Cycle? (8 Marks)


How can I find the frequency of genotype Bb in a population given that the frequency of BB is 0.49? (Where B = dominant allele, b = recessive allele on the same gene).


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning